She Lost RM281,700 via 8 Transfers After Trusting WhatsApp ‘Investment Adviser’

A businesswoman in Miri has lost RM281,700 after falling victim to a fraudulent investment scheme promoted through WhatsApp.

Miri police confirmed that a report regarding the incident was lodged with the district Commercial Crime Investigation Department on Wednesday.

According to police, the victim, a 40-year-old businesswoman, was introduced to what was presented as a share investment opportunity by an individual she had recently met through WhatsApp.

The suspect identified himself as “Mr Mike” and reportedly contacted the victim using two separate mobile phone numbers.

Authorities stated that the victim was persuaded by promises of high investment returns within a short period.

Believing the opportunity to be genuine, the woman proceeded to transfer money through a series of transactions allegedly connected to the investment programme.

Police said the victim carried out eight separate transfers to six different bank accounts, with total losses amounting to RM281,700.

Why you should never make transfers like this:

DON'T TRANSFER: Requests to Transfer Funds to Other Accounts Could be a Scam!

When a broker or its agent asks you to transfer money into an unusual or unrelated account, treat it as a serious warning. This practice is one of the most common signs of a scam in online trading, and ignoring it can cost you your savings!

News 2025-09-04

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The transfers were reportedly made following instructions provided by the suspect under the pretext of investment dealings.

The victim only began suspecting fraud after attempting to withdraw the promised profits.

According to investigators, the suspect repeatedly provided excuses and delayed the withdrawal process each time the victim requested payment.

The woman later realised that the investment scheme did not exist and that she had been deceived.

Authorities are now investigating the case under Section 420 of the Penal Code for cheating.

Under Malaysian law, offences under the provision carry penalties that may include imprisonment of between one and 10 years, caning and a fine upon conviction.

Police have urged anyone with information related to the case to contact the investigating officer handling the matter.

Fraud syndicates frequently use social media and direct messaging platforms to establish trust with victims before introducing fake investment opportunities.

In many cases, scammers spend time building personal relationships and creating the impression of legitimacy before requesting financial transfers.

Financial crime investigators have warned that many fraudulent investment operations follow similar patterns.

Victims are commonly attracted through promises of unusually high returns, quick profits and low investment risk.

Some scammers also provide fabricated screenshots, fake trading records or temporary profits to convince victims that the investment platform is genuine.

Once larger sums are transferred, communication may become irregular and withdrawal requests are often blocked or ignored.

Malaysian authorities have repeatedly advised the public to conduct proper checks before investing money in any financial scheme.

Police also reminded consumers to verify investment opportunities through official regulatory channels, including Bank Negara Malaysia‘s Financial Consumer Alert List and the Securities Commission Malaysia’s Investor Alert List.

The public has additionally been encouraged to use the Commercial Crime Investigation Departments online scam checking platform to review suspicious phone numbers and bank account details before making payments.

Authorities stressed that individuals who suspect they have transferred money to scam syndicates should immediately contact the National Scam Response Centre by dialling 997.

Rapid reporting may improve the chances of authorities freezing suspicious bank accounts before funds are moved further through the financial system.

Investment scams continue to represent one of the fastest-growing forms of financial crime in Malaysia.

Industry observers note that fraud syndicates are becoming increasingly organised, often operating across borders and using sophisticated communication methods to target victims.

The growing popularity of digital communication platforms has also provided scammers with easier access to potential investors.

As financial fraud cases continue rising, authorities are placing greater emphasis on public awareness campaigns aimed at helping consumers identify warning signs before becoming victims.

Experts continue advising the public to remain cautious of unsolicited investment offers, especially those promising guaranteed profits or requiring urgent transfers to multiple bank accounts.

Police investigations into the case remain ongoing.